Carolyn Welch Clifford: Candidate profile
Bio
Name: Carolyn Welch Clifford
City: Barrington
Office sought: Library Trustee
Age: 54
Family: Spouse is Brian Clifford; Two college-aged children, Sarah and Michael
Occupation: Attorney; Partner with Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper Gilbert & DiNolfo, Ltd. in Naperville. I am a municipal attorney, focused on representing firefighter and police pension funds, fire and police commissions, and fire protection districts.
Education: BS (News Editorial Journalism) and JD, both from University of Illinois - Champaign/Urbana
Civic involvement: American Association of University Women and Girl Scouts
Previous elected offices held: None
Incumbent? If yes, when were you first elected? Yes; first appointed to fill vacancy in 2000; first elected in 2003
Website: reelectcarrpintozziclifford.org
Facebook: Protect Our Library
Tumblr: protect-our-library.tumblr.com
Twitter: ProtectourLibrary
Instagram: protectourlibrary
Issue questions
What are the most important issues facing your library district and how do you intend to address them?
Improved connections with more diverse segments of population and community partners - I hope to accomplish this through more hands-on outreach to organizations and community groups that already service or represent these populations to determine their needs and how we can partner on projects to meet those needs. Maintaining our current property while still seeking additional property for future expansion, either adjacent to current site or in another appropriate site in the District - This requires ongoing monitoring of the Village's intentions with respect to Lake Zurich Road and the underpass project, as well as being open to other opportunities throughout the District.
Why are you running for office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you? If so, what is it?
I believe in the importance of public libraries in strong and engaged communities, like the Barrington area. I want to make sure this District has the resources to continue to facilitate the library's relevance and importance in this community.
If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are a non-incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.
During my years as a library trustee, I am most proud of the selection of two outstanding executive directors and of the beautiful facility we have built. As a trustee, I have been mindful of not micromanaging the director or the staff, but rather making sure they have the resources they need to provide excellent library services.
Do you have a library card? How long have you had it? How often do you use it?
Yes - since first moving to Barrington in 1993. I use my library card weekly.
What impact have economic and technological changes had on libraries? How does a library remain relevant? How should its role in the community change?
While economic changes have forced libraries (and all local governments) to be more thoughtful with resources, technological changes have allowed us to expand and improve how we deliver services. It is a fallacy that libraries have to struggle to remain relevant; rather, libraries are thriving and are more relevant than ever. Libraries, like the Barrington Area Library, are cementing their presence as the heart of the community. Particularly in Barrington where community engagement and involvement in organizations are strong, our building provides a gathering place and an important resource to build relationships and offer resources (besides just meeting space) for our community to make connections and thrive. As our library continues to evolve and change our role, increasing our partnerships within the community and committing to intergovernmental cooperation for shared resources will be important.